Stuck in the big city for most of the year? When you do finally get the chance to get out into nature, you probably want to make the most of it. But how do you connect with nature in the best way? What can you do to make the most of your next coastal escape or remote wilderness adventure? Here are some ideas.
Seek out the most scenic walks
You’ll want to start by seeking out the most scenic walks. These are the ones that offer you the most photogenic opportunities and allow you to bask in the wonder and glory of nature.
The good news is that in places like the US and Western Europe, many of these walks are marked out on guided trails. All you need to do is follow the signposts. You can see the very best that specific national parks or areas of outstanding beauty have to offer.
If you are going somewhere else in the world, then take a guide with you. These professionals can show you the best trails and locations and expose you to everything that the local area has to offer using their specific knowledge.
Practice grounding and barefoot experiences
Another thing you’ll want to do is practice grounding and barefoot experiences. When you make a direct connection with the Earth, the leaky change is how you feel. For example, you could go on an outdoor yoga or Tai Chi retreat. These are often done barefoot and on the Earth itself, sometimes in forest locations. You could also go for forest bathing somewhere like Japan or Korea. Here, instructors and guides encourage you to take your shoes and socks off and feel the dirt between your toes.
When you start grounding, you’ll notice that it makes you feel more connected with the earth itself. It can improve your mood and allow you to return to your regular life feeling refreshed.
Stay on a campground
It is also a good idea to think about where you stay. Nature-focused accommodation is often better, for example you could go to a campground or the Hidden Lake RV Park. All these options give you opportunities to be outside more than you usually would. You can enjoy stargazing if you’re in a dark sky area or waking to the sound of birdsong.
Go on wildlife observations or safaris
If you’re interested in seeing animals in their natural habitat, then wildlife observations or responsible safaris is a great idea. Tour guides can take you to observe rare species and allow you to get up close and personal with these animals in their natural environment. This is something that you wouldn’t normally be able to do in most parts of the developed world.
Find hidden gems
Finally, you’ll want to go out and look for hidden gems. These are natural wonders like ancient forests, coral reefs, or waterfalls. Stone arches can also be a great location for photographs. The most memorable moments happen away from crowded viewpoints, so don’t be afraid to explore lesser-known trails or ask locals for recommendations. Small coves, quiet cliff paths, and secluded lakes can offer a deeper sense of discovery and calm. Take your time when you arrive, allowing yourself to fully absorb the atmosphere. Hidden gems are about finding places that feel personal, peaceful, and uniquely yours.
Slow down and follow natural rhythms
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is trying to “see everything” instead of truly experiencing a place. Seasoned travelers know that nature rewards those who slow down. Wake up with the sunrise, take an evening walk during golden hour, or simply sit quietly and listen to the sounds around you. Watching tides roll in, clouds shift over mountains, or birds begin their morning routines helps you reconnect with natural rhythms that city life often disconnects us from.
Try local outdoor traditions
Every destination has its own way of interacting with nature, and joining local traditions can completely transform your experience. In coastal regions, this might mean early-morning fishing trips or sea kayaking with locals. In mountain areas, it could be guided foraging walks, alpine picnics, or traditional hut-to-hut hiking. These activities allow you to experience landscapes through the cultural lens of the people who know them best, making your adventure far more meaningful.
Disconnect digitally to reconnect mentally
Experienced travelers often set boundaries with technology while exploring nature. Consider dedicating parts of your day to airplane mode or leaving devices behind altogether. Without constant notifications, you’ll notice details you might otherwise miss — the texture of rocks beneath your feet, the scent of pine forests, or the changing colors of the sea. Many travelers find that even a few hours of digital disconnection dramatically deepens their sense of relaxation and presence.
Capture memories beyond photographs
Photos are wonderful, but expert travelers often go a step further by documenting experiences in more personal ways. Keep a small travel journal, sketch landscapes, collect natural sounds, or note wildlife sightings along your journey. Writing down how a place feels — not just how it looks — helps preserve memories long after the trip ends. These mindful moments also encourage you to engage more deeply with your surroundings rather than rushing from one viewpoint to the next.
